A striking new exhibition will bring the vivid imagery of the Book of Revelation to life at Hexham Abbey this autumn, with 14 monumental embroidered panels offering visitors a visual journey through one of the Bible’s most mysterious books.
Threads Through Revelation, by acclaimed textile artist Jacqui Parkinson, will be shown at the abbey from 13 October to 22 November 2026. Admission will be free.
A decade of textile work
Parkinson’s exhibition explores scenes and symbols from Revelation, the final book of the Bible. The book is known for its dramatic imagery, symbolic visions and themes of hope, suffering, justice and renewal, but its complexity can make it difficult for modern readers to approach.
The artist’s work offers an alternative way into the text, using colour, texture and storytelling rather than words alone. The 14 large-scale panels depict John’s extraordinary visions, including the cosmic struggle between good and evil, the promise of divine justice and the hope of a new heaven and a new earth.
Each panel has been made with layers of silk, hand-dyed fabrics, metallic leathers, paint and extensive stitching. Parkinson first became captivated by Revelation in 2013 and spent three years and three months creating the series.
Her wider Threads Through the Bible project includes the Creation, Cross and Revelation series. Together, the three collections comprise 44 panels and more than 25 million stitches, created over a decade.
Exhibition aims to make Revelation accessible
The exhibition is intended to do more than illustrate the biblical text. Parkinson’s approach is designed to help people see Revelation afresh and engage with its ideas through visual art.
Previous visitors to the exhibition have reportedly been surprised by how accessible the artworks make the book, with some saying they were finally able to understand and appreciate a text they had previously avoided.
Although Revelation contains images of conflict, judgement and uncertainty, the exhibition presents it fundamentally as a story of hope. Its central themes include the possibility of restoration and renewal beyond the turbulence of human history.
Works to be shown in the abbey
Hexham Abbey said the historic setting will give visitors the opportunity to experience the textiles in a sacred space intended for reflection. The exhibition is aimed at people familiar with Revelation, those interested in biblical art or embroidery, and anyone looking for an inspiring cultural experience.
Hexham Abbey is one of the venues hosting the acclaimed national touring exhibition. Visitors will be able to encounter Parkinson’s detailed panels and consider the themes woven through the series during the six-week run.
Threads Through Revelation will be on display at Hexham Abbey from 13 October to 22 November 2026. Admission is free.